By CESAR JOLITO III

Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya said the city government will deploy monitoring teams to oversee fuel stations in the city as concerns over rising fuel prices continue amid tensions in the Middle East.

The initiative aims to ensure that gasoline retailers comply with pricing adjustments authorized by the Department of Energy (DOE) and to address any complaints or potential violations.

According to city records, 151 gas stations are currently operating in Bacolod, although a total of 164 establishments are registered.

Monitoring activities are expected to begin immediately following a scheduled coordination meeting with the DOE.

Gasataya said the monitoring effort will be jointly carried out with the Philippine National Police.

Two dedicated teams will be deployed to inspect stations and check compliance with DOE guidelines on price adjustments, as well as to respond to possible complaints from consumers.

The inspection teams will be composed of personnel from several city offices, including the City Mayor’s Office, City Legal Office, City Treasurer’s Office, Government Communications Office, and the Business Permit and Licensing Office.

City Administrator Mark Steven Mayo recently led an alignment meeting to establish proper documentation procedures for the monitoring operations.

Inspectors will record each station’s name and location, the date and time of inspection, fuel supply reports or photos, and any unusual purchasing patterns observed.

Statements or clarifications from station management will also be obtained to ensure transparency and fairness during the monitoring process./CJ, WDJ